Welcome to Rappler, a social news network where stories inspire community engagement and digitally fuelled actions for social change. Rappler comes from the root words "rap" (to discuss) + "ripple" (to make waves).

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila Police District (MPD) is prioritizing the arrest of 82 drug suspects as part of Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada’s local campaign against illegal drugs.

MDP director Senior Superintendent Joel Coronel said on Saturday, July 9, that Estrada directed them to go hard against alleged drug users and pushers in Manila.

“Whatever you need – firearms, equipment, vehicles – whatever, I will provide you. I will give all the tools you need. Just go all out and rid the city of illegal drugs,” Estrada told Coronel during a meeting at the city hall on Friday.

According to Coronel’s report to Estrada, 3 of the 82 names in the MPD’s priority list include “Level 3” traffickers or those who are suspected of carrying at least two kilos of methampethamine or shabu and other types of drugs.

These will then be distributed to “Level 1 and 2” retailers or street pushers.

“Levels 4 and 5, these are the importers, manufacturers, and smugglers, the main sources of drugs in the country,” he added.

The MPD chief, however, said they have not received any reports about drug dens operating in Manila. He said the city is “too small and crowded” for drug manufacturing facilities to operate without being noticed.

Would you like to share your vote?

Welcome to Rappler, a social news network where stories inspire community engagement and digitally fuelled actions for social change. Rappler comes from the root words "rap" (to discuss) + "ripple" (to make waves).